journey – Renew Inspiration Mind Body Spirit

Moving, but Standing Still

LaPorterSeptember 27, 20189 Replies

waterfall, woman, stillness, still, peace — pixabay

Be not afraid of slow going, be afraid of standing still. – Chinese Proverb

Special Thought – Not all storms come to disrupt your life, some come to clear your path.

Welcome back to Renew Inspiration! Since we last spoke, have you taken time to renew your inspiration? Are you inspired to become better than you were yesterday? What drives you to push forward when obstacles arise in life? Who inspires you to reach for your dreams throughout this journey?

As you’re thinking about the previous questions, I have another one for you to think about. Have you ever felt like you keep moving and moving through life, but you are standing still? Yes, you are busy with life, spending time with your spouse, family and friends, caring for your children, working, shopping, cleaning, enjoying your favorite hobby, etc. But when you really think about your internal happiness, health and spiritual well-being, you have to be honest with yourself. Your life is really not changing in a positive way. There is no personal growth. You’re scared to be spontaneous and have fun. You never want to leave your comfort zone. There is very little sparkle within your circle of friends.

Now, if this sounds familiar have no fear. Just keep reading and I promise you will receive an inspirational word that will not only help you overcome this moving, but standing still season in your life, but you will be able to make a mental connection with your body and spirit as well.

To the mind that is still, the whole universe surrenders. – Lao Tzu

10 Steps to Stop Moving, but Standing Still

Step 1. Make sure to be realistic while putting your thoughts into perspective honoring your personal beliefs.

Step 2. Don’t be afraid to prioritize things that matter most to you in your life right now.

Step 3. Remove all negativity, both people and things.

Step 4. Don’t be afraid to say NO to others and think positive thoughts throughout your day.

Step 5. Start using a calendar or planner to organize your appointments and errands.

Step 6. Create a separate To-Do List daily to stay organized and stress free.

Step 7. Treat your body well and with respect.

Step 8. Exercise daily and eat a well-balanced diet to include plenty of fruits and vegetables.

Step 9. Set realistic goals, create a plan to reach your goals and track your progress.

Step 10. Spend time in prayer, meditation and reading God’s Word to receive the proper guidance in your life.

The fact that I’m still standing on my own two feet, in a world that has tried its best to knock me down over and over again, proves only one truth; I am unbreakable. – Stephanie Bennett-Henry

Still Standing – Written by Latisha Porter

Note – This poem was written based on Psalm 46:10 – Be still and know that I am God.

Despite what my life may look like from your perspective, I am still standing.

I have endured heartache and pain, but yet I am still standing.

I have been broken time and time again, but yet I am still standing.

I have known hardship and I have lost myself time and time again, but yet I am still standing.

I have experienced hurt like no other from a defiant child that I chose to adopt, but yet I am still standing.

I have suffered the loss of my parents which put a huge hole in my heart, but yet I am still standing.

I have struggled through the grieving process, anxiety and depression, but yet I am still standing.

I am standing on God’s Word which gives me inner strength to move forward in life and my faith which gives me these inspiring words to encourage you as well.

Remember my friend, God will make a way for you and me, we need only to be patient and be still.

Time for Reflection – Journal Prompts

• What do you think about you?
• What are your strengths and weaknesses?
• What are you feeling right now in this very moment?
• What makes you happy inside?
• What makes you smile?
• What brings you joy?
• What are your values?
• What do you believe in?
• What are you grateful for? List at 5 things and tell why.
• What are you having a hard time accepting? Why is it hard to let go?
• Write yourself a love letter. Make sure you talk yourself through a struggle.
• How can you create space for self-love in your life right now and in the future?

My dear readers, I sure hope you have read something today that has given you a boost of positive energy and some ideas to help you stop moving, but standing still throughout your personal journey. Please be so kind to share this blog with others who may need an encouraging word. Peace and blessings to you!

Time for Action
Please leave a comment and share what you have chosen to do differently in order to better organize your mind, body and spirt. Remember we learn from one another, so don’t be shy. I look forward to reading your comments.

Believe in yourself today, tomorrow and forever!

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Push Harder – Goal Setting 101

LaPorterSeptember 15, 201810 Replies

flowers, notebook, pen, coffee, goals — pexels

The harder you work for something, the greater you’ll feel when you achieve it. – Unknown

Thought for today – Don’t expect to see change if you don’t make one.

Welcome back to Renew Inspiration! Some people are inspired to dance, to sing, to draw, to become a doctor, an engineer, a teacher, an entrepreneur, to do mission work, to lose weight, to be great parents, and even to be the President of the United States. In order to stay inspired to do great things in life, you have to give and receive remarkable influence throughout your journey. You have to work hard and show your passion for whatever you set your heart out to do. You have to surround yourself with like-minded people, so you will feel the positive synergy around you.

Well, as many of you already know, I have decided to become an inspirational blogger. I have a passion to write and to express my thoughts on paper. In addition, I love to encourage and inspire others to reach his or her full potential. As I help others, I become a stronger person throughout my personal journey. Always remember, no matter what your goals are, there has to be a fire within you in order for you to strive to reach your goals. You have to think positive and plan for success.

Well, how do you start? First, you should set some personal goals for yourself. However, not just any kind of goals, make sure you set S.M.A.R.T. goals as well as H.E.A.R.T. goals.

S – Specific – Well defined so that anyone can understand the goal
M – Measurable – Needs to have parameters in order to know if the goal was achieved
A – Attainable – Must be a realistic goal that challenges you
R – Relevant – Make sure the goal is consistent with your other goals and will aid you in achieving your long-term goal
T – Time Oriented – Create a time frame for when you want to accomplish your goal

Here’s an example of my S.M.A.R.T. goal:

Simple Goal – I want to improve my health.
Smart Goal – I will improve my health by eating 100 grams of protein, drinking 64oz of water and exercising every day.

Next, you need to write down your goals to clarify and strengthen your daily intentions. Break down your goals into small and manageable steps to overcome any anxiety you may have. Hold yourself accountable by maintaining focus and discipline throughout the process. Rewarding yourself will help reinforce the positive actions you’ve taken so you can continue doing it every day. Effective systems and habits make it easier for you to accomplish your goals on a regular basis. Simply put, your success is found in your daily routine.

S.M.A.R.T goals are good, but H.E.A.R.T. goals will help balance your life. Make sure your goals don’t make your to-do list unachievable, then you will be off track.

H – Help yourself. You have to take care of you. You cannot pour from an empty cup.
E – Everyone else. People matter so share love with others around you. Be kind to strangers.
A – Attitude and academics. Have a positive attitude. Never stop learning.
R – Resources. Steward time, money and energy well.
T – Trade and Business. Find your passion. Enjoy a fun hobby. Then, start a business.

Here’s an example of my H.E.A.R.T. goals:

• Read God’s Word, pray and meditate daily.
• Exercise for at least 60 minutes per day.
• Daily Steps at least 12,000 steps per day.
• Sleep for at least 7 hours per day.
• Research, write and publish at least 5 articles per week.
• Research, write and publish at least 3 inspirational blogs per week.
• Read an inspirational book or positive affirmations daily.
• Write in my mood journal daily.

Set some goals, then demolish them. – Unknown

Make a Plan

After you establish your goals, now it is time to create and follow a plan to make your goals a reality. Here’s some important tips to keep in mind during the planning process:

• Make clear deadlines for achieving your goals.

• Set personal milestones to stay motivated.

• Decide what actions are required to reach your goals.

• Put your actions into a schedule that is easy to follow.

• Readjust your goals or plan as you see fit throughout your journey.

Setting Goals – Quotes to Live By

• You are never too old to set another goal or to dream a new dream. – C.S. Lewis

• Setting goals is the first step in turning the invisible to the visible. – Tony Robbins

• Life takes on meaning when you become motivated, set goals and charge after them in an unstoppable manner. – Les Brown

• Your ability to discipline yourself to set clear goals, and then to work toward them every day, will do more to guarantee your success than any other single factor. – Brian Tracy

flower, lilypads, goals, meditate, peaceful, quiet — pexels

Time for Reflection – Journal Prompts

Here’s some journal prompts that will help you push harder on those challenging days. Go to your quiet place, pull out your journal and start answering some of these questions. Make sure to reflect on your answers throughout your journey.

• How often do you set goals for yourself?

• How do you determine if something is important enough to set a goal for it?

• How successful have you been at achieving the goals you have set for yourself? Discuss some successes and failures of previous goals.

• What are your biggest personal milestones?

• How well are you currently balancing life?

• How confident do you feel about who you are?

Believe in yourself today, tomorrow and forever!

Seek God’s Face

LaPorterAugust 12, 20182 Replies

cross, sunset, sky, hill, God, Jesus, Lord — pixabay

Seek the LORD and his strength, seek his face continually. (I Chronicles 16:11)

Thought for today – Allow God to amaze you with what He can do for your situation.

Welcome back to Renew Inspiration! How often do you seek God’s face? For some, seeking God’s face is done on a daily basis and for others seeking God’s face is done on an as needed basis. What does it really mean to seek God’s face? Well, I believe seeking God’s face simply means to seek God’s presence in your life. Presence is a common translation of the Hebrew word “face”. Literally, we are to seek his face throughout our lives.

Here’s some ways for us to seek God’s face throughout our lives:

• Read God’s Word, study it and meditate on it

• Fasting and praying regularly

• Confessing your sins and repenting to God regularly

• Reading daily devotions

• Singing praise and worship songs

• Attending church services regularly

When you think that everything is against you remember God is always with you.

Journal Prompts – Time for Reflection

Let’s spend some quality time seeking God’s face while writing in our journals.

• What is on my mind right now?
• What do I need to meditate and/or pray about?
• What feels like a struggle in my life right now?
• What advice do I need to receive from God?
• Am I prepared to receive God’s advice?
• How can I strengthen my relationship and faith in God?
• How much time do you spending reading God’s Word, praying or meditating?

As you travel throughout your spiritual journey, there are always obstacles that we encounter while living our lives on Earth, but we must work around them in order to seek God’s face and see him clearly. It is always important to stay away from anything and anyone who blocks us from being in the presence of God. Through this spiritual process, remember to seek God’s face by calling and pleading for Him to fill your presence with His anointing from on high. Only then will you receive the necessary peace, comfort, security and healing from God. Be peaceful, be happy, be whole.

Believe in yourself today, tomorrow and forever!

I WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU
How much time do you spend seeking God’s face? Challenge yourself and spend some quality time reflecting on the answers to the journal prompt questions noted above. Please share your thoughts and comments.

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Writing to Escape

LaPorterAugust 10, 20181 Reply

You might not write well every day, but you can always edit a bad page. You can’t edit a blank page. – Jodi Picoult

writing, escape, bubble, lonely — pixabay

Thought for today – There is no greater agony than bearing an untold story inside you. – Maya Angelou

Welcome back to Renew Inspiration! Today, I want to express the passion I have for writing. There are many reasons why I write. Sometimes I write because I am happy, and I also write when I am sad. However, the main reason why I have a passion for writing is to escape. When you hear the word “ESCAPE” what is the first thing you think about? For me, when I think about the word “ESCAPE”, I think about breaking free from something. When I write, I like to escape from life as I know it each day. I like to escape the pain and misery of losing both my dad and mom. Losing your parents leaves a hole in your heart that can never be filled. I like to escape the frustration of parenting adopted children with disabilities and behavior problems. I like to escape the racism of this wicked world for not only having black skin, but also for being a woman. I like to escape from mental illness both depression and anxiety. I like to escape from those sleepless nights when I just listen to my thoughts go on and on. Writing allows me to be honest with my feelings and help me cope with challenges that I face throughout my journey.

Journal Prompts – Time for Reflection

Start writing, no matter what. The water does not flow until the faucet is turned on. – Louis L’Amour

Keep Calm and Write On

Let’s use our Journal to escape from negative thoughts, pain, hurt, sadness, and bad memories. Remember, journaling should be a safe place for you to write how you feel and to reflect on your heart felt thoughts. This is your personal journey so make sure you are honest throughout the process.

MIND – Be still and know that I am God. (Psalm 46:10)
• Meditate on escaping from something from within and write about it.
• What takes your mind away from God?
• What brings you the most joy in life? Describe it in detail.
• What qualities do you think others admire about you?
• How much do you truly love yourself? How do you show it?

BODY – No temptation has overtaken you except such as is common to man; but God is faithful, who will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able, but with the temptation will also make the way of escape that you may be able to bear it. (I Corinthians 10:13)
• What do you feel right now in this very moment? Listen to your body and write about it.
• Do you feel courageous on today? If so, take time and write about it. If not, how can you build courage in your life?
• Where do you struggle with pride, dishonesty, or being discontent?
• In what area of your life do you need to improve self-discipline?
• How do you de-stress during the week?

SPIRIT – The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit. (Psalm 34:18)
• How do you cope with pain, misery, sadness, being alone, etc.? Write about it.
• How is God your strength and protector? Write about it.
• When do you feel God’s presence most in your life? How do you respond?
• What is one way that you can improve your spiritual walk?
• How can you improve your prayer and meditation routine?

As you can see, writing to escape is real and takes little effort on your part. If you don’t currently write in a journal today, take a moment and think about how journaling could help you cope with the daily challenges of life. Believe it or not, sometimes I just pick up my pen and just start writing words, not sentences. Before I even realize it, I am writing paragraphs. Writing to escape can help you clear your mind and offer you an opportunity to break free from internal bondage. Writing to escape can help you lose yourself on paper and forget about time. Most of all, writing to escape can bring about a peace that is more powerful than the stress in your life right now. So, what are you waiting for? Let’s get our journals and write to escape!

Believe in yourself today, tomorrow and forever!

I WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU
Please share what you escape from as you write, think or just meditate. How do you plan to escape the challenges of life? What is holding you back from journaling? I look forward to reading your comments and feedback!

Renew Inspiration is a participant in the Target Affiliate Program which is an advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Target.com

Feed Your Focus

LaPorterJuly 23, 20183 Replies

Starve your distractions, feed your focus. – Unknown

Thought for today – Be focused. Be persistent. Never quit. One day or day one. You decide.

It’s time to focus on what really matters, right? Life, family, careers, households, hobbies, etc. Whether you are trying to focus on some personal goals for yourself or trying to pursue a new career, it’s important to:

• Set Goals
• Stay Motivated
• Be Productive
• Change Your Mindset

A mind troubled by doubt cannot focus on the course to victory. – Arthur Golden

Set Goals

• Evaluate your current situation – What do you want to change?
• Determine your goals – What do you want to improve?
• Write down your goals and revisit your goals daily
• Write down a plan to reach your goals
• Establish a reward system when you reach milestones
• Check your progress and readjust your goals as necessary

Stay Motivated

• Recite positive affirmations and quotes
• Read inspirational and motivational books
• Pick a healthy habit to work on daily
• Join a supportive group to receive encouragement and feedback
• Determine weaknesses and strengths
• Think positive and remind yourself of your goals
• Track your progress throughout the week

Be Productive

• Strive for consistency while working on projects
• Observe how you plan your days – Use a daily To-Do List
• Define your priorities – What’s important to you?
• Have a positive mindset daily
• Define your focus

Change Your Mindset

• Positive thoughts equal positive outcomes
• Admit that your thinking needs to be adjusted
• Seek positive support from family, friends, support groups
• Immerse yourself in personal growth – Read inspirational books or listen to positive speakers
• Forward thinking will move your focus away from where you don’t want to be to where could be

The secret to change is to focus all of your energy, not on fighting the old, but on building the new. – Socrates

My Journal Prompts – Time for Reflection

MIND

• What is your favorite memory or life experience?
• Write about an obstacle you overcame today.
• When was the last time you listened to your intuition, and what was the outcome?

BODY

• Name one area of physical or emotional health you excel in, and one you would like to improve.
• What is your priority in life at the moment?
• What are you proud of yourself for today?

SPIRIT

• How do you respond to setbacks and failure? Why? How could you change this from within?
• When do you feel most confident?
• Write down 5 ways to relax and commit to doing at least 1 each day.

GOALS

• What is your ultimate goal in life?
• What is a habit you want to develop? How will it help your long-term goals?
• Identify your biggest time management mistake.

FOCUS

• What are your 3 biggest distractions, and how do you plan to reduce them in your life?
• What are 3 areas of your life where you are the weakest, and how do you plan to strengthen them?
• Today I showed focus today by _______________________________.

Remember, improving your life starts with improving your mindset. Here’s some suggestions to help you feed your focus throughout your journey:

• Write in your journal every day.
• Write thank you notes to people who help you throughout your journey.
• Read positive affirmations and quotes.
• Write a Wins Checklist based on your best experiences and accomplishments.
• Adopt a healthy lifestyle. Look at how you sleep, what you eat and how much/little you exercise.

I WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU
How do you plan to feed your focus? Will you consider journaling to help you feed your focus? I look forward to reading your feedback!

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Ways to Better Engage in God’s Word

LaPorterJuly 8, 20188 Replies

Thy word is thy lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path. (Psalm 119:105)

Welcome back to Renew Inspiration! So, how often do you read and study God’s Word? Do you just read your favorite verse, pray, then move on with your day? In order to be engaged in God’s Word throughout our lives, we must schedule quality time to not only read God’s Word, but also to write down our personal thoughts about the verses read, determine how we can apply the verses to our own lives and cross reference the information in the Bible Concordance.

Here’s my suggestions for beginning this spiritual journey:

• Set a time to better engage in God’s Word and stick to your plan.
• Gather your materials, such as Bible, Notebook/Journal, Pens, Highlighters, Sticky Notes, Bible Concordance, Dictionary, etc.
• Designate a quiet space with no distractions, such as cellphones, televisions, people, noise, etc.
• You may want to play some soft music in the background to set a relaxing mood.
• Make sure your study area is free of clutter and well lit.
• Pray and meditate while studying God’s Word to open your mind and heart.
• Speak to God often to strengthen your relationship and ask Him to direct your study time.

Thought for today – Each day I need to let God’s Word interrupt me, rearrange me and redirect me.

Making time to read and study God’s Word is so important. God’s Word can help guide us in the right direction or make us rethink a situation before we pursue it further. In addition, our time spent in Scripture must alter us if it has truly been an encounter with God. God has created us to interact and respond to His Word in multiple ways. We should all endeavor to engage in God’s Word throughout our lives and hold ourselves accountable throughout our journey.

Here’s some ways to better engage in God’s Word:

• Study – When we study God’s Word we are investing focused time in a passage word, character or theme. Study requires you to analyze the Scripture which takes concentration and focus. The primary goal of study is understanding.

• Devotional – The goal for devotional reading is application. Simply put, what the Scripture means to me. However, we must make sure this is not the only way we interact with Scripture or we risk losing the truth.

• Meditation – Meditation is the ability to hear God’s voice and obey His Word. During meditation it is important to fill your mind with Christ. The goal of meditation is reflection.

• Memorization – It is important to understand what Scripture teaches us so have God’s Word hidden in your heart and mind. Memorizing God’s Word helps us achieve the goal of discipline.

• Action – Clearly, we must be focused on doing what Scripture teaches. We must be changed and compelled into action, whether in our thoughts or our actions. Spending time in God’s Word must lead us to obedience.

So, as you can see, there are various ways to better engage in God’s Word. Keep in mind, you may not be able to engage in all of these ways each day but schedule your time to include all the areas of study, so you can have a better understanding of God’s Word. Remember, spending time studying God’s Word is our intentional determination to grow in our understanding and to strengthen our bond with Him. Even if you have not engaged in God’s Word in the past, take a leap of faith and start today.

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Journal Prompts – Time for Reflection

MIND

And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus. (Philippians 4:7)

• What takes your mind away from the Lord, thus robbing your peace?
• What is your biggest dream?
• What has prevented you from going after your dream?
• What thoughts have I been repeating in my head lately? Are they true?

BODY

Who is own self bare our sins in his own body on the tree, that we, being dead to sins, should live unto righteousness: by whose stripe ye were healed. (I Peter 2:24)

• List 5 ways you’ve become stronger and more courageous this month.
• Lord, please strengthen my heart when it comes to ________________.
• When I’m in pain, physical and emotional, I find strength in ________________.
• How can I make more space in my life for the things I love?

SPIRIT

Behold, I will pour out my spirit unto you, I will make known my words unto you. (Proverbs 1:23)

• Where do you see the unmistakable mark of the creator? Thank and praise God for it.
• How is God trying to get your attention to stop, treasure, and ponder how he’s working in your life right now in this very moment?
• When have you seen God use something small to produce a big outcome?
• What can I do to nurture my spirit more?

I WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU
How often do you read God’s Word? When is your favorite time to ready and study God’s Word? Do you have a favorite scripture that is hidden in your heart? Do you keep a written Bible Journal or Notebook to reflect your study time? If so, please share in the comments section. I look forward to reading your feedback!

Be Strong and Courageous

LaPorterMay 27, 20187 Replies

dream, strong, courageous, goals, fears — Pixabay

Wait on the Lord: be of good courage, and he shall strengthen thine heart: wait, I say, on the Lord. Psalm 27:14

Welcome back to Renew Inspiration! Let’s face it, it is hard to start projects, whether it is writing a book, training for a 5K, going back to school, changing jobs or any other dream you may have. The moment you take that first step on your journey, the moment you start working toward your dream, little seeds of courage starts to sprout all around you. Take a deep breath and capture the moment. Despite the fear you may feel because you are entering an unknown territory, embrace your true feelings and know that courage is not just around you, but within you as well.

Face Your Fears

Sometimes what you’re most afraid of doing is the very thing that will set you free. -Unknown

Be strong and courageous throughout your journey! Remember, how far you’ve come, not just how far you have to go. It’s important to face your fears in life and realize that being afraid is okay. When you allow yourself to “feel” during a situation, then and only then, you will be able to overcome the obstacle at hand. For example, I have a fear of writing a book. It’s okay for me to feel a certain kind of way about writing a book because I have never done this before. Despite my hesitant feelings, I have started to face my fears and just started researching and writing down ideas for my first book. Remember, being honest with yourself is key to facing your fears and communicating with positive people who support your endeavors.

Here’s some ways to help you face your fears:

• Pray to God for strength and courage to face your fears
• Ask your family and friends for encouragement or share your feelings
• Seek out professional help – Examples: pastor, therapist or local support group
• Research the topic online or at the library to get a better understanding
• Read an inspirational book related to the topic
• Take a class or start a hobby related to your topic
• Write a journal entry related to the topic and how you feel

lion, woman, courage, fear, strength, overcome — Pixabay

Strengthen Your Heart

Be of good courage, and he shall strengthen your heart, all ye that hope in the Lord. Psalm 31:24

You are not where you want to be in life, but neither are you where you used to be. As we continue our journey through life, we often spend a lot of time trying to discern God’s will for our lives. Now, let’s think about that for a moment. We ask God to direct our paths every day or to help us make important decisions that will impact our lives in some way. We often find ourselves waiting to hear a voice from God. Then, once we hear God’s voice we begin to listen to cowardly advice from those negative people around us which cause us to be frightened and timid throughout the situation. There’s no magical wand that is used in these situations. Remember, God can call you to do great things as He did with Joshua in Numbers 13:30. In this scripture, Joshua believed that God could help them take the promised land while others were afraid.

Here’s some ways to help you strengthen your heart:

• Read and meditate on God’s Word
• Attend church and bible class regularly
• Participate in support groups within your church or local community
• Read an inspirational book, positive quotes or positive affirmations daily
• Make time for personal reflection throughout your day or week
• Seek out professional help – Examples: pastor, therapist or local support group
• Keep a journal so you can express your feelings and thoughts honestly

Life is too short to start your day with broken pieces of yesterday, it will destroy your wonderful today and ruin your great tomorrow. Do you believe this on today? I sure hope so. Let’s begin to live for today and make positive choices in our lives that provides us with an uplifting future. Almost every successful person begins with two beliefs: the future can be better than the present and I have the power to make it so. In addition, your mind, body and spirit must work together as one unit. Sometimes when you’re in a dark place, you think you’ve been buried, but actually you’ve been planted. Sprinkle your soil with the Fruits of the Spirit: Faithfulness, Self-Control, Patience, Goodness, Gentleness, Joy, Kindness, Peace, and Love. Remember, never lose hope because miracles happen every day.

Believe in yourself today, tomorrow, and forever!

Three Life Rules

1. If you don’t go after what you want, you’ll never have it.
2. If you don’t ask, the answer will always be no.
3. If you don’t step forward, you will always be in the same place.

-Unknown

Special Quotes

Courage doesn’t mean you don’t get afraid. Courage means you don’t let fear stop you. -Unknown

Courage is the power of the mind to overcome fear. -Martin Luther King, Jr.

I learned that courage was not the absence of fear, but the triumph over it. -Nelson Mandela

Fear is a reaction. Courage is a decision. -Winston S. Churchill

Journal Expression – It’s Time to Pray, Meditate, and Write

Take some time today to listen to God. Pray, meditate, and sit in the quiet, think, and listen. Also, have your Bible and journal nearby, and see what God has for you today.

• What does it look like for you to take a step of courage today that will help you start?

• What is one question you’ve been afraid to bring to God? Ask God the question right now, out loud, and listen for His answer.

• List one dream you have for your life. What would this dream look like to be full of hope, even if you don’t know how your story is going to end?

• Write about a door you know God has closed in your life. How did you find the courage to work through this experience?

Prayer for Strength and Courage

Heavenly Father, I want to hear from you on today. Speak to me right now in this very moment. Teach me how to hear you in my heart. Please show me what you want me to do to live out my calling. Give me the strength and courage. In Jesus Mighty Name, AMEN.

ACTION: After you pray to God, wait and listen. Then, journal what you hear and have the courage to share with a family member, a friend, or a mentor you trust. Remember, the best way to grow in your ability to hear God is to practice and let others help you.

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Speak from Within

LaPorterMay 8, 20188 Replies

My soul finds rest in God alone: my salvation comes from him. He alone is my rock and my salvation; he is my fortress; I will never be shaken. Psalm 62:1-2

Welcome back to Renew Inspiration! Today, I want to share some inspirational words with you with a message titled “Speak from Within”. Now, this is a message that you will have to open your heart and be willing to feel the words throughout your soul. I want you to read these words and meditate on what the message really means to you.

Overcomer: 25 Keys to Walking Victoriously

Before we get started, please make sure you have the following:
• Mind – An open mind; Meditation ready
• Body – Willingness to express oneself; Eager to move from one place to another freely
• Spirit – Humble and caring spirit; Broken soul
• Journal or Notebook
• Pen or Pencil

The Spirit of God, who raised Jesus from the dead, lives in you. Romans 8:11

What is the message that you need on today? What is it that you need to focus on within your life, right now, in this very moment? I’m stronger because I had to be, I’m smarter because of my mistakes, happier because of the sadness I’ve known, and now wiser because I learned. During our life long journey, it is important for us to speak positive words into our soul. It is important for us to speak success into our inner being. Despite the hurt we may feel or the sadness we experience in life, often times we forget that the power to overcome life’s challenges is already inside you and me. If you feel lost, it is because the heart and mind are not working in harmony, when they work together you will find peace.

Define success on your own terms, achieve it by your own rules, and build a life you’re proud to live. -Anne Sweeney

Depression and grief may rise up within me, but I meditate on positive thoughts to overcome this feeling. But sometimes that is not enough. I’m going to be honest, this is truly a difficult time for me because I have to feel the sadness and experience the grief from my mother’s death. No one can prepare you for the emptiness inside after losing your mother or any loved one for that matter. No words can comfort your heart after it is broken in many pieces. I look up at my mother’s picture and father’s picture every day and think about all of the positive memories that are carefully stored away in my mind and in my heart. Sometimes I shed tears and sometimes I just pick up a pen and just start writing. Now, this is my testimony or life experience however you want to define it. What is your story or experience? It is important to allow yourself to feel and to express honestly. I survived throughout my journey because the fire inside me burned brighter than the fire around me. I had to reflect on scriptures that are hidden in my heart in order to rise up above my problems, situations, depression, sadness, hurt, etc.

Don’t mistake God’s patience for His absence. His timing is perfect, and His presence is constant. He’s always with you! Deuteronomy 31:6

Ask and it will be given to you, seek and you will find, knock and the door will be opened to you. Matthew 7:7

With God there is no limit to what you can do. There is no obstacle you can’t overcome. Through Him, all things are possible. Matthew 19:26

Hardships often prepare ordinary people for an extraordinary destiny. -C.S. Lewis

As I get older, I realize that decisions become easier when your will to please God outweighs your will to please the world. I know that is a lot to accept at times, but it is truly a choice that you and I have to make each day we wake up. Know that your words, thoughts, and actions speak into your very existence throughout your journey. Whether you agree with me or not, it is important for you to understand where you are. You don’t owe others nothing in life, but you owe everything to yourself. Examine your priorities and make the necessary adjustments in order to make time for personal growth.

Don’t underestimate me. I know more than I say, think more than I speak, and notice more than you realize.

Before you speak, let your words pass through three gates: Is it true? Is it necessary? Is it kind?

Greatness is hearing your truth and speaking it, no matter how your voice shakes. -Mel Robbins

journal, pen, plant, desk, thoughts, purpose — pexels

Positive Thinking Every Day: An Inspiration for Each Day of the Year

Please grab your journal or notebook and reflect on the journal prompts below. I told you at the beginning of this blog that you will need to be honest with yourself and be willing to feel the words within your soul. If you allow yourself to escape for a moment and answer the questions, you may free yourself from emotional bondage. Keep in mind that this is a journey and everyone takes their own path, makes their own choices, and suffer their own consequences.

Journal Prompts with a Purpose – Positive Thinking – Positive Outcome:
• What do you want people to remember about you?
• If I really loved myself I would ___________________.
• Where do you feel safe and loved?
• What’s your biggest regret?
• What have you done to make amends and/or forgive yourself?
• If you could change just one thing about yourself, what would it be?
• How do you think your life would be better?
• Have you ever tried to change it?
• I think I’m really good at _________________ and I know this because ________________.
• What are you proud of?
• What do you see as your biggest accomplishment?
• If you could be anywhere right now, where would you be?

Gratitude Journal Amazon Affiliate Link

Remember, this is a personal journey. It is important for you to find your safe place and surround yourself with God’s love, peace and joy.

Believe in yourself today, tomorrow, and forever!

Embrace Who You Are

LaPorterApril 22, 20185 Replies

Embrace and love your body. It’s the most amazing thing you will ever own. -Unknown

personal, person, surrender, embrace, nature — pixabay

Welcome back to Renew Inspiration! So glad you have returned for more uplifting inspiration that comes from within. Today, let’s focus on this topic: Embrace Who You Are! Now, think about that for a moment and define what that means to you, right now in this very moment. Then, answer this question: What is your personal vision for your life? Take a moment and visualize your life as you want it to be. Go to a quiet, private environment for 15 minutes every day where you can close your eyes and imagine your body, environment, relationships, and life in ways that please you. Always remember, what has been has nothing to do with what will be, and what others experience has nothing to do with your experience. This is the moment where you must find a way to separate yourself from all of the past and from the others in order to be what you want to be. Then, you will be able to embrace your personal journey one step at a time.

The more you embrace and surrender to change, the more you will be supported. -Unknown

hero, embrace, woman, power, strength — pixabay

You have within you, right now, everything you need to deal with whatever the world can throw at you. Do you believe this? Sometimes you have to be your own hero. Do you have the courage to do so? Just because you are struggling throughout your journey does not mean you are failing. Keep believing and the good things will happen. Do you have the faith to believe in yourself? Always remember the one who falls and gets back up is so much stronger than the one who never fell at all. Your purpose is to fully be all that you are. Now, think about that for a moment. Look at yourself in the mirror and tell yourself with confidence – I BELIEVE IN THE PERSON I’M BECOMING!

Your greatest obstacle and your greatest strength stare back at you in the mirror every day. -Unknown

Make your own happiness and peace of mind a priority. Be more positive, be happier, think positive & find greater success by doing the following:

• Write yourself a love letter.
• Learn something new from someone today.
• Choose a positive mantra and repeat it throughout the day.
• Take a moment to write down your values. What is most important in your life?
• Keep good on promises to yourself. Do at least 1 thing to work towards your goals.

Strength grows in the moments when you think you can’t go on but you keep going anyway. -Unknown

Believe in yourself today, tomorrow, and forever!

Journaling to Find Yourself

LaPorterApril 5, 201810 Replies

Inhale the future, exhale the past

journal is a reflection of who you are, it’s a repository for all of the things that interest and inspire you. A journal provides a safe environment to experiment with your writing style and technique. Simply put, when you write in a journal it becomes your personal journey of creative and heart felt thoughts.

Stay patient and trust your journey

Now, let’s take the journaling process to the next level. How about using the journaling process to find yourself? Journaling is a way to capture ideas and keep your dreams alive until you can put them in motion. Ideas can be found all around you. Take a moment and look around you right where you are. Inspiration is not required to knock at your door twice. We have to be ready and willing to do what’s necessary to grow, to learn, and most importantly, to find yourself.

A little progress each day adds up to big results

5 Tips for Capturing your Best Journal Ideas:

1. Take your journal everywhere you go to capture those special thoughts or moments as they happen. If your journal is too big, you can always buy a small notebook to use while you are on the go. Then, transfer or glue your notes in your journal at a later time.

2. Select a journal that feels right to you. You can purchase a beautifully crafted handmade journal, a hardcover book with unlined pages, a softcover notebook with lined pages, a 3-ring binder with loose paper, or just a spiral notebook. It really doesn’t matter your style, just make sure that your journal feels right to you and you can comfortably use it to capture your thoughts.

3. Handwrite your journal entries so you are unable to edit your thoughts. Handwriting keeps things more spontaneous and also gives you clues about your emotional state. If you’re anything like me, you can tell what you’re feeling just by analyzing the state of your writing.

4. Create an informal table of contents in the beginning of each journal. Number each page and try to list the topics covered as you go along. This makes finding stuff a lot easier down the road or when you just want to reflect on some of your past writings. Don’t worry about doing this each time you journal, but make sure to complete this step before starting your next journal.

5. Don’t worry about format, grammar, or spelling. Remember, this is your personal space and a written account for how you feel right now in this very moment. Don’t worry about following your traditional writing rules, just write.

Here are 10 reasons why you should use journaling to find yourself:

1. To ponder and pen your big dreams – Your journal is an ideal place to write out all of your desires and dreams. If there were no limits, what would you want to become? Who would you want to meet? What would you have? Where would you go? Write it all down, describing in detail what your success would look like. By doing this, you can begin to put the laws of success attraction into motion.

2. To get clarity and solve problems faster – When you are unable to see a clear path in your life, it’s better to jot down all those thoughts swirling around in your head. Writing things out gives you the accurate perspective necessary to attract the right solutions. Take a moment to write down questions related to your problems. In fact, you should have an attitude of expectancy that you will find the right answers.

3. To chart what works – Journaling about your ideas, successes, and even failures empowers you to backtrack to see what’s working in your life and what’s not. It’s important to be honest with yourself and be willing to make the necessary adjustments where needed to live a rewarding life.

4. To track your past victories – Take a moment to celebrate your victories and write when and where you have excelled in life. It’s easy to remember your every mishap, but also make an effort to note what’s going right in your life as well.

5. To plan and strategize – Use your journal for both short-term and long-term planning. This process will allow you to work through specific strategies on how you will accomplish your goals. Plan everything from the week ahead to the entire year in your journal.

6. To create a success action routine – Your success action routine should consist of time for meditation and visualization, speaking positive affirmations and reviewing your goals. Visualize yourself completing your goals and feeling the benefits and rewards of doing so.

7. To take control over your future – Journaling about your ideal life and begin to act as if you have that life right now. Be descriptive and detailed in your writing. This will help you prepare for an opportunity that doesn’t exist yet, and ready yourself for the victory to come.

8. For self-improvement – Your journal is a safe place where you can truly be honest with yourself. This is your book, your story, your journey. You have no limitations or boundaries. Your journal is private so you can express yourself and get to know who you really are and what you truly desire.

9. To help you through the decision-making process – In your journal, you can list pros and cons when you are faced with having to make a difficult decision. Write out every possible outcome and use this to guide you through the decision-making process.

10. To keep you in a state of gratefulness – As you go through the process to find yourself, stay grateful throughout your journey. Express gratitude in your journal. Slowing down to make note of what you’re thankful for can relieve you of anxiety, stress, and help you to enjoy life to the fullest. In addition, the act of gratefulness also draws more positivity your way, helping you to create a cycle of success.

Still stuck in a rut and have nothing to write, here are examples of ideas to include in your journal:

• Reactions to personal situations and world events
• Goals you’re working toward (weight loss, career, personal)
• Inspiring quotes or affirmations
• Poetry that moves you
• Pictures from magazines or photos you love
• Books to read
• Music you’ve heard that you may want to purchase
• Websites to explore
• To do lists or reminders
• Topic research or exploration
• Relationship successes or problems
• Travel plans
• Dreams to explore
• Feelings, thoughts, or emotions

One small positive thought in the morning can change your whole day

Journal Prompts are given to inspire you to write freely and to help you think about mind, body, and spirit as you write. But today, think of journal prompts as a thought provoking exercise to help you find yourself.

• Name 5 things that you love about yourself.
• What did you learn about yourself this month? this week? today?
• What are you inviting into your life with your actions?
• Has your mind spent more time today focused on the past, present, or future?
• What feels like a struggle at the moment?
• What do I want to accomplish in my life today? tomorrow? next week? next month? next year?
• What has been going well in my life lately?
• How can I create more acceptance in my life?
• What traits do I like about myself?
• What are my character strengths?
• How have I been holding myself back?
• How can I take a step forward?

Dream. Plan. Do.

So, grab your journal and write your ideas so you’re able to retrieve your thoughts whenever needed. Your journal holds all of your pertinent life information so you can remember and reference at any time in your future. Remember, you shape your world for success. Begin to imagine and dream. Don’t be afraid of goal setting and planning. Have courage to move in a positive direction toward your personal growth and advancement.

I WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU
If you do keep a journal, please share some of your organizing tips and techniques; pros and cons of journaling; journaling tips that help you continue your journey. We learn from one another so your comments are necessary in order for all of us to learn and grow. I look forward to reading your feedback!